Two lucky farmers who walked away with livestock prizes – a sheep with a lamb and a goat with a kid – at the Moalosi Duncan Serapelwane (MDS) Agricultural Expo collected their winnings at Duncan Serapelwane Farm outside Vryburg over the weekend.
By Lebogang Mashala, editor at African Farming
Lesang Sennanye, a livestock farmer from the Vryburg area, won the sheep package, and Kelebogile Smok, who farms in Kuruman, received the goat package.
Both farmers expressed excitement and gratitude for the opportunity, describing the prizes as life-changing and deeply encouraging.
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A Second Chance After Stock Theft
Sennanye said winning the ewe and lamb at the expo was especially meaningful, as he recently lost his flock to stock theft.
“This feels very special to me. It is like I have been given a second chance. God has opened a new door for me that I thought had closed,” said Sennanye.
He described the prize as emotional, encouraging and deeply motivating.
“This is more than just receiving animals. It has restored my hope and given me the courage to rebuild and return to sheep farming with renewed purpose. Farming can be tough and challenging, but the journey continues even after setbacks,” he said.
Sennanye also praised Duncan Serapelwane for hosting what he described as a groundbreaking initiative.
“The expo brought farmers together and created a space where we could learn from one another and from the excellent line-up of speakers. We networked, shared experiences and left encouraged,” he added.
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Platform for Learning and Networking
Smok said she was overwhelmed with joy after receiving the goat package. “I’m lost for words and very thankful to Mr Serapelwane.”
She commended the MDS team for creating one of the few platforms where farmers not only stand a chance to win prizes but are also exposed to valuable learning and networking opportunities.
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Inspiring the Next Generation of Farmers
Serapelwane said the livestock giveaway initiative was aimed at motivating and empowering young and emerging farmers.
“This initiative is intended to inspire young people by showing them farming holds real potential. Agriculture can play a significant role in addressing food security and unemployment while contributing meaningfully to the economy,” he said.
Serapelwane, who has been farming since 2003, has earned respect for mentoring emerging farmers and supporting initiatives such as Donate a Heifer.
“Farming has the power to transform lives. This expo is about opening doors, sharing knowledge and inspiring the next generation of farmers,” he said.
Also read: Two young farmers receive donated heifers at Moalosi Bonsmara Sale
Practical Skills and Modern Farming Solutions
The expo featured a dynamic programme of hands-on workshops, masterclasses, live demonstrations and exhibitions. Farmers, agribusinesses, students and stakeholders were exposed to the latest developments in agricultural production, agro-processing and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence in agriculture.
Topics covered included improving herd productivity, fertility and resilience, reducing livestock losses through better herd health and reproductive management, understanding farm finances, and preparing bankable business plans and funding proposals.
According to Serapelwane, the success of the MDS Agricultural Expo highlighted the growing importance of farmer-led initiatives in developing the next generation of agricultural producers. “Beyond the livestock prizes, the event created a platform for learning, mentorship and collaboration, reinforcing the message that agriculture remains a powerful tool for economic growth, food security and rural development,” he said.
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